Drug houses can set up anywhere in any city, including the quietest residential neighbourhoods, bringing with them other problems for the community.
The subsequent increase in vehicle and foot traffic by drug dealers and their customers can cause alarm and distress in many Edmonton communities. The Edmonton Report a Drug House (RADH) program enables residents to report suspected drug houses and work with police to eliminate threats to community safety and peace of mind.
History
The Report a Drug House program was created by the Edmonton Police Service in 2007 to improve the quality of life for residents in neighbourhoods affected by drug operations and other related crimes that accompany such activity. Since that time, many changes have been made to the program to enhance its effectiveness and ensure that it continues to be an option for citizens to report potential drug houses.
Effects of drug houses on the community
- General sense of insecurity in the community
- Increased property crime such as residential break and enters, thefts of/from auto, general mischief
- Drug paraphernalia (needles, pipes, etc) and discarded condoms
- Loss of property value
Signs of a drug house in your community
- Increased vehicle traffic/foot traffic
- Visitors at odd hours
- Visitor goes up to house or resident exits house and approaches visitor
- Quick visits
- Variety of vehicles coming and going
- Drug paraphernalia
- General unkempt house/yard
- Blinds/curtains closed
- Vehicles left running outside
Information to obtain prior to reporting your concerns
This sheet will help you provide important information to law enforcement. If you choose to gather this information, always ensure that your personal safety comes first; never put yourself in harms way to obtain this information.
How to report tips
A concerned citizen can call the RADH phone line (780-426-8229) and make general inquiries. You can also fill out the online form. Official complaints through the RADH program, either by phone or over the internet, cannot be treated anonymously or confidentially.
Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers online or at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS.)
Confidential reports can also be generated through the Province of Alberta’s Safer Communities & Neighbourhoods (SCAN) at 1-866-960-7226 or visit their website.